Judicial Branch and Roman Civilization

Questions and Answers

What characterized the early Roman government established after the overthrow of the king?

It placed power solely in the hands of the wealthy aristocrats.

It was a direct democracy allowing all citizens to vote on laws.

It was a republic where citizens elected their leaders. (correct)

It was a monarchy concentrated in the hands of a single ruler.

Which of the following best describes the term 'republic' as it pertains to Roman governance?

A form of government where citizens indirectly influence political decisions. (correct)

A system where citizens have no say in government.

A government run by a single dictator with absolute power.

A political system where only aristocrats participate in governance.

During which time period did the earliest Romans engage in battles for control of the Italian peninsula?

600 to 400 B.C.

700 to 200 B.C.

500 to 100 B.C.

1000 to 500 B.C. (correct)

What was a primary reason for the shift from monarchy to republic in Roman governance?

A reaction against a harsh king by a coalition of Roman aristocrats. Signup and view all the answers

Which system contrasts with the republic form of government established in Rome?

A direct democracy with active citizen participation. Signup and view all the answers

What significant change did Pericles implement to strengthen democracy in Athens?

Increased the number of paid public officials Signup and view all the answers

What term describes the Athenian government system where citizens rule and make laws directly?

Direct democracy Signup and view all the answers

What ratio of Athenian residents were actual citizens during the time discussed?

One-fifth Signup and view all the answers

During which time period did the Greeks successfully defeat the Persian forces?

480 to 479 B.C. Signup and view all the answers

Which leader is credited with significant advancements in Athenian democracy during the 5th century B.C.?

Pericles Signup and view all the answers

What was one major outcome of Solon's reforms in 594 B.C.?

Cancellation of debts for farmers Signup and view all the answers

How did Solon's system categorize citizenship in Athens?

Based on wealth Signup and view all the answers

Who was allowed to hold public office in Athens after Solon's reforms?

Citizens from the three higher classes Signup and view all the answers

What legal concept did Solon introduce regarding wrongdoers?

Right for any citizen to bring charges Signup and view all the answers

Which group was omitted from participation in Athenian democracy under Solon's reforms?

Slaves and women Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Judicial Branch and Juries

Juries vary in size, typically composed of 6 to 12 members.
Trials conducted with paid jurors and are one-day events.
Defendants and plaintiffs do not have attorneys, nor is there an opportunity for appeals.

Roman Civilization

The Roman Republic emerged around 509 B.C. after aristocrats overthrew a king.
Power in the Republic rests with citizens who can elect government leaders.
A republic is an indirect form of democracy, differing from direct democracy.

Reforms of Solon

Solon, a prominent Athenian statesman, enacted reforms in 594 B.C. to prevent civil unrest.
Outlawed slavery due to debt and canceled farmers' debts, stabilizing society.
Established four classes of citizenship based on wealth, allowing only higher classes to hold office.
Created the Council of Four Hundred to handle governmental issues and permitted all citizens to bring legal charges.
Despite reforms, only about 10% of the population were considered citizens; women, slaves, and foreigners were excluded.

Persian Wars and Athenian Democracy

Between 490 to 479 B.C., Greek city-states united against Persian invasions.
Athenian democracy thrived during public debates on defense strategies.
Pericles, a key figure from 461 to 429 B.C., bolstered democracy by paying public officials and jurors, enhancing participation.

Roman Law and Influence

The Roman legal system aimed to establish uniform justice throughout the Empire, focusing on reason and fairness.
Principles of Roman law included equality under law, presumption of innocence, and acknowledgment of unreasonable laws.
The Twelve Tables represented a foundational written legal code, influencing Western legal systems.

Glorious Revolution

The death of Charles II in 1685 led to the rise of James II, a Catholic monarch.
James II's rule sparked fears among Protestant citizens regarding a potential return to Catholicism as the state religion.
The unrest extended to English colonies in America, anticipating a shift in governance dynamics.

Impact of Legal Principles

The concept of habeas corpus arose to protect individuals from wrongful detention, a principle still vital in democracies today, including in the U.S. Constitution.

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Description

Explore the key aspects of the Judicial Branch, including jury sizes and trial processes. Additionally, learn about the emergence of the Roman Republic and the significant reforms introduced by Solon that shaped Athenian society. This quiz combines legal principles with historical developments.